Artist Profile: Tank

Tank aka Durell Babbs was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and raised in Washington, DC. Before he decided to pursue music professionally, he was almost drafted into the NFL. Obviously, god had a different plan.

Tank tells stories through song.  His debut album, “Force of Nature” (2001) proved that his talent is durable enough for him to be indeed, a “force of nature” in this business.

Tank first captivated us with the ballad, “Maybe I deserve” which explored the subtle psychological repercussions of cheating.  Tank states, “a lot of women have come up to me and said they’ve been justified in their relationships and comfort in a record that shows maybe their men deserve what they’re doing to them”.

That single helped catapult Tank’s debut album to gold status. The video reached top 10 on Billboard elbowing its way past the work of music veterans and newcomers.

His sophomore album, “One Man” (2002) showcased Tank as a writer, producer as well as a singer. He like most young men trained and perfected his voice from years of singing in the church. Tank states, “I’m not a big fan of mixing gospel and R&B. I thank god for this opportunity and when it comes time to do gospel, it will be time to do gospel. I’m not going to do one song in the bedroom and another in the church. I’m not trying to confuse nobody!”

Tank’s latest single, “Please Don’t Go” is becoming more and more popular on our station. It’s a passionate ballad that is reminiscent of his very first single in which he pours his heart out asking his woman not to walk out the door. Tank’s songs always have a way of resonating with his fans and hitting home. He certainly has as knack for telling a great story. His third album will be released this summer. In the meantime, he has been busy writing and producing for other artists such as Jaime Foxx and Jaheim to name a few. He has also taken a shot at acting as he has been in a few plays as well.